IBO

The International Biology Olympiad (IBO) is the world’s premier biology competition for secondary school students. Each year, top students from over 75 countries and territories gather to test their theoretical knowledge and practical skills across all domains of biology. The IBO promotes excellence in biological sciences, fosters international collaboration, and encourages young talents to pursue careers in science and research. The event combines high-level assessment of theoretical and practical skills with cultural exchange. This creates a unique and inspiring experience for the next generation of biologists.

The IBO started as an international competition in 1990 in former Czechoslovakia. The inaugural event took place with only six participating countries. The Netherlands started participating in 1991 and quickly established themselves as an active member of the community. The IBO competition of 1993 took place in Utrecht with 15 delegations. After 35 years the competition will again take place in The Netherlands.